Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[jasonlulu_2000]

First impressions are the most lasting. After all, you never get a second chance to make __ first impression.
A. the B. a

Which one is better from a native's point?

WHY?


Thanks

[Editmachine]

"A" first impression is the most natural way to complete that sentence.

The reason is that the phrase 'first impression' has the idea of 'once', and only once attached to it, since there can only be one first time for anything. There are instances when "THE" first impression could be used but in this case, it is more natural the other way. Hope that helps...........

[Lorikeet]

I think in this case it is "a first impression" because when you are saying the sentence, you don't know which "first impression" you are talking about. If, however you had a conversation like this:

A: I know it's so important to make a good first impression. I'm afraid I didn't do well on the interview.
B: What happened?
A: I fell on the way to the interview so the first impression I made was one of someone who had mud all over her skirt and torn hose.

I'm sorry I can't think of a better example, but you can see that "the first impression" is used when you know which "first impression" you are talking about.

[jasonlulu_2000]

Of great help.

thanks both